Dear ICS Families,

As we enter the month of March, we also step into the sacred season of Lent—a time of sacrifice, reflection, and renewal. This year, the significance of these forty days weighs especially heavy on our hearts. Just as Christ spent forty days in the desert, fasting, praying, and enduring trials, we too find ourselves in a season of profound transition following the announcement that this will be the final year of our beloved school.

Lent reminds us that even in times of uncertainty and loss, God is at work, preparing us for something greater. It is a season that calls us to trust—to believe that through sacrifice, we are being shaped for renewal. Though this chapter in our school’s history is coming to a close, our mission, our faith, and the strength of this community will endure.

As we journey together toward Easter, let us hold on to what has always made ICS special: our unwavering faith, our love for one another, and the belief that God’s plan is always unfolding, even when we cannot yet see it. May these forty days strengthen us, unite us, and remind us that hope is never lost.

With faith and gratitude,

Morris Johnson
Principal
Immaculate Conception School

Understanding the Season of Lent

Lent is a sacred 40-day period of preparation, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal leading up to Easter Sunday, when we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time when Catholics around the world are called to reflect on our faith, examine our hearts, and draw closer to God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. This season invites us to pause from the busyness of life, consider the ways we can grow spiritually, and embrace the discipline of sacrifice—not as a burden, but as an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with God and with one another. Lent challenges us to look beyond our own needs and comforts, encouraging us to serve others, deepen our faith, and prepare our hearts for the profound joy of Easter.

The number 40 holds significant biblical meaning, representing periods of testing, transformation, and renewal:

• Noah and the flood lasted 40 days and nights, after which the world was renewed (Genesis 7:12).

• Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai receiving God’s commandments (Exodus 34:28).

• The Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years before reaching the Promised Land (Numbers 14:33-34).

• Jesus fasted for 40 days in the desert before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:2).

During Lent, we are invited to walk with Jesus, to imitate His love, humility, and obedience, and to prepare our hearts for the joy of His Resurrection. This is done through:

1. Prayer – Deepening our connection with God and seeking His guidance.

2. Fasting – Offering small sacrifices to draw closer to Christ and focus on spiritual nourishment.

3. Almsgiving – Serving others through acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion.

Ways for Families to Observe Lent Together

As parents, you have a beautiful opportunity to help your children understand and engage in Lent in meaningful ways. Here are some ways you can recognize this sacred season as a family:

1. Deepen Your Family’s Prayer Life

• Set aside time each day for family prayer, such as praying the Our Father, Hail Mary, or the Act of Contrition together.

• Read a short Gospel passage each evening and discuss what it means.

• Pray the Stations of the Cross on Fridays, reflecting on Jesus' journey to the Cross.

• Encourage your children to pray for someone in need each day.

2. Teach the Meaning of Sacrifice Through Fasting

• Encourage children to “give up” something meaningful (sweets, screen time, a favorite toy for a day) as a small act of sacrifice.

• Promote positive fasting, such as “fasting from complaining” or “fasting from unkind words.”

• Make simple meals together to reflect on Jesus’ fasting in the desert.

• Have a “meatless Friday” tradition as a family.

3. Practice Almsgiving & Acts of Kindness

• Involve children in donating clothes, toys, or food to those in need.

• Encourage small acts of kindness, such as writing thank-you notes or helping a sibling without being asked.

• Support a Lenten service project at church or school.

• Place a "Kindness Jar" in your home, where children can write down one good deed they did each day.

4. Reflect on Jesus’ Journey and Passion

• Watch an age-appropriate movie about Jesus' life, such as The Prince of Egypt or Jesus of Nazareth.

• Read children’s books about Holy Week and the Passion of Christ.

• Attend Reconciliation as a family, discussing the importance of forgiveness.

• Create a Lenten countdown calendar with simple faith-based activities for each day.

5. Prepare for Easter with Joy & Anticipation

• Decorate a Lenten prayer table with a crucifix, purple cloth, and a Bible.

• Light a Lenten candle each Sunday and reflect on your spiritual journey as a family.

• Teach children about the meaning of Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday.

• End Lent by attending Easter Vigil or Easter Sunday Mass together, celebrating the joy of Christ’s Resurrection.

By intentionally embracing this season as a family, you will help your children deepen their faith, understand the meaning of sacrifice, and experience the hope and renewal that Easter brings. May this Lenten journey bring you closer to God and to one another.

Blessings for a meaningful and holy Lent!

The Sacrament of Reconciliation: A Gift of God’s Mercy

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is a sacred opportunity for Catholics to receive God’s mercy and forgiveness. Through this sacrament, we acknowledge our sins, express true sorrow, and commit to turning our hearts back to God. With the guidance of a priest, we receive absolution, restoring our relationship with God and strengthening our spiritual journey.

Who Can Participate?

Any baptized Catholic who has reached the age of reason (typically around age 7) is invited to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It is especially encouraged for those who are preparing for First Holy Communion and Confirmation, as well as for all Catholics who seek to renew their faith and relationship with God.

The Importance of Reconciliation During Lent

Lent is a season of repentance, reflection, and renewal, making it the perfect time to receive this sacrament. Just as Jesus spent 40 days in the desert, preparing His heart for the mission ahead, we too are called to examine our hearts and seek God's grace. Through Confession, we let go of sin, receive God's mercy, and prepare our souls for the joy of Easter.

Reconciliation helps us to:
✅ Reflect on our actions and recognize where we can grow in faith and virtue.
✅ Receive God’s mercy, knowing that no sin is too great for His love and forgiveness.
✅ Experience spiritual renewal, emerging with a lighter heart and a stronger commitment to live as Christ calls us to.
✅ Prepare our hearts for Easter, so that we may fully celebrate the Resurrection with joy and peace.

Student Reconciliation Schedule

We are blessed to offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation to our students on Tuesdays during Lent. Students will have the opportunity to examine their conscience, confess their sins, and receive God's grace on the following dates:

📅 Tuesday, March 11th – 9:30 AM → Grades 7 & 8
📅 Tuesday, March 18th – 9:30 AM → Grades 5 & 6
📅 Tuesday, March 25th – 9:30 AM → Grades 3 & 4

We encourage families to speak with their children about the significance of this sacrament and help them prepare their hearts for this important step in their faith journey.

May this Lenten season be a time of healing, renewal, and grace for our entire community. May we all draw closer to God through His infinite mercy!

🎨🍷 Parent Sip & Paint Night – An Evening of Art, Fellowship, & Community 🍷🎨

Join us for a special Sip & Paint event, hosted in partnership with Brilla Charter School, as we come together to celebrate our ICS community, engage with Brilla’s leadership, and enjoy an evening of creativity and fellowship.

This adults-only gathering will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with one another, alongside ICS faculty and staff, in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Under the guidance of our resident artist, Mr. Alejandro Santiago, we’ll explore our artistic sides while creating beautiful works of art to take home.

🍽️ Food & libations will be provided as we sip, paint, and share in meaningful conversation. Whether you're a seasoned artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, this event is all about fun, creativity, and community.

📅 Date: Friday, March 14th
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Art Room

🎟️ Admission is free, but registration is required for planning purposes. Secure your spot today by signing up at the link below:

🔗 Register Here

We look forward to sharing this memorable evening with you! Come for the art, stay for the fellowship! 🎨🍷

Brilla Charter Schools Open House – March 21st at 3:00 PM

We invite all families to join us for a Brilla Charter Schools Open House on Thursday, March 21st, beginning at 3:00 PM. This event is an opportunity to experience Brilla schools in person, learn more about their approach to education, and gain insight into what makes their academic and character formation programs unique.

During the Open House, families will have the chance to:

🏫 Explore Brilla’s Facilities – Tour the school and see the spaces where students learn, grow, and engage in a structured, joyful, and academically rigorous environment.

📚 Ask Questions About the Academic Program – Learn about Brilla’s Classically-inspired curriculum, inquiry-based learning, and how they foster critical thinking, virtue, and student excellence.

💡 Gain an Understanding of Brilla’s Culture & Vision – Meet school leaders and educators who are dedicated to developing young men and women of strong character and intellect.

Whether you are considering Brilla for your child’s education or simply looking to understand more about their mission and approach, this Open House is the perfect time to engage, ask questions, and see the Brilla difference firsthand.

📅 Date: Thursday, March 21st
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM
📍 Location: More detailed information regarding the specific school site will be shared in the coming days as final details are confirmed.

We encourage all families to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to explore what Brilla has to offer. We look forward to seeing you there! No registration required—just come ready to learn and engage.

Navigating the High School Matriculation Process: What 8th Graders Should Expect at This Stage

As we move into March, 8th-grade students and families should be actively finalizing their high school decisions and preparing for the transition ahead. The next steps vary depending on whether students are enrolling in NYC Catholic high schools, Independent schools, or Public/Public Charter high schools, but all families should remain engaged, organized, and proactive. Below is a breakdown of what to expect based on your chosen high school pathway.

🟣 NYC Catholic High Schools

Families who have applied to Catholic high schools through the TACHS process should have already received acceptance letters and financial aid decisions. At this point, students should be:

✅ Finalizing Enrollment Decisions – Most schools require a registration deposit and confirmation of intent to enroll by March or early April. Ensure you complete this process to secure your spot.

✅ Understanding Financial Aid Packages – If awarded financial aid, review the tuition and payment plan details. If necessary, contact the school's financial aid office to clarify any concerns.

✅ Attending Accepted Student Events – Many Catholic high schools host welcome sessions, orientations, and family meetings to help students and parents transition smoothly. Attend these events to get acquainted with the school community.

✅ Preparing for Placement Exams – Some schools require math and/or language placement tests to determine course placement for freshman year. Be sure to check with your high school regarding upcoming testing dates.

✅ Staying on Top of Communication – High schools will send follow-up emails regarding uniforms, summer reading, and course registration. Ensure you are regularly checking emails and school portals.

✅ Gathering Required Documents – Some schools request additional documents, such as medical forms, final report cards, or immunization records. Submit these promptly to avoid enrollment issues.

📌 Pro Tip: If your family has not yet made a final decision or is considering transferring an acceptance, contact the school immediately. Waitlist spots may still be available at certain Catholic high schools.

🔵 NYC Independent Schools

For students who have applied to Independent (Private) Schools, the admissions timeline is slightly different from Catholic high schools. Families should be focused on:

✅ Receiving & Comparing Final Decisions – Most Independent Schools notify families in early March, with deadlines to confirm enrollment typically by mid-March. Families should carefully review financial aid awards, tuition obligations, and school expectations before making a final choice.

✅ Confirming Enrollment & Tuition Deposits – If you plan to enroll, ensure all contracts and deposits are submitted before the school’s deadline to secure your spot.

✅ Understanding Summer Bridge Programs & Course Selection – Many Independent Schools offer summer enrichment or bridge programs to prepare incoming students. Check with your school regarding these opportunities.

✅ Attending Orientation & Welcome Events – Schools may offer meet-and-greet sessions, parent orientations, and student shadow days to ease the transition. Take advantage of these to meet faculty and future classmates.

✅ Planning for Transportation & Uniforms – Some independent chools have specific dress codes, public/private transportation plans, and school-specific materials to review before the start of the school year.

📌 Pro Tip: If you were waitlisted at your top-choice Independent School, remain engaged with the admissions office. Send a letter of continued interest, update them on any academic progress or new achievements, and be prepared with a backup plan in case a spot does not open up.

🟢 NYC Public & Public Charter High Schools

For students entering NYC Public or Charter High Schools, the Department of Education (DOE) high school admissions process follows a unique timeline. At this stage, students should expect:

✅ Receiving High School Placement Results – NYC public school offers are expected to be released in March via the MySchools portal. Students who applied to Specialized High Schools (via the SHSAT exam) will also receive their results.

✅ Accepting Your Offer – Once offers are received, families should accept the best placement available while considering any waitlist opportunities. Public schools typically require confirmation of enrollment within a few weeks.

✅ Understanding the Waitlist Process – If students were not matched with a preferred school, they can join waitlists for their top-choice schools through the MySchools portal.

✅ Reviewing Appeals & Transfer Options – Some students may be eligible for appeals or transfers based on academic programs, geographic priority, or sibling preference. Check with NYC DOE enrollment offices for next steps.

✅ Attending Orientation & High School Prep Events – Public and charter schools will host orientation events, summer programs, and bridge activities. Make sure to check emails and school portals for important dates.

✅ Preparing for Transportation & School Materials – Many public and charter schools have MetroCard options, required summer reading, and dress codes that should be reviewed in advance.

📌 Pro Tip: If you are unhappy with your placement, immediately contact the high school admissions office to explore waitlist and appeal options. Persistence and early action may improve your chances of securing a better placement.

🔑 Tips for Students & Families to Manage This Process

✔️ Stay Organized – Keep track of acceptance deadlines, financial aid forms, required documents, and communication from schools.

✔️ Ask Questions – If you are unsure about enrollment requirements, summer programs, or orientation, reach out to high school admissions offices for clarity.

✔️ Consider Backups & Waitlists – If your top-choice school is unavailable, ensure you have a solid backup plan in place.

✔️ Stay Engaged in Schoolwork – Final grades still matter! High schools may review final transcripts, so students should continue to perform well.

✔️ Prepare for Transition – Begin thinking about transportation, uniforms, summer reading assignments, and course selections.

✔️ Celebrate Your Hard Work! – The high school process can be stressful, but take time to celebrate your achievements and look forward to this exciting next step.

This is a critical time for 8th graders, and staying informed, proactive, and flexible will help ensure a smooth transition. Whether students are attending a Catholic, Independent, Public, or Charter High School, this is a moment of new beginnings and opportunities.

Congratulations to all our students as they take this next big step toward high school! 🎉

Thank You for an Incredible ICS Mardi Gras Winter Formal!

To our amazing teachers, families, alumni, and staff—we cannot thank you enough for all the time, energy, and creativity you poured into making this year’s ICS Mardi Gras Winter Formal a truly unforgettable celebration!

From the incredible balloon creations designed by our resident balloon artist, to the delicious food prepared and served by our wonderful parents and alumni, to the energetic music that kept everyone on their feet, every detail of the evening reflected the heart and joy of our ICS community. And of course, a special shout-out to our students, whose excitement, joy, and dancing made the night as magical as it was!

A huge thank you to our operations staff, Ms. Raquel and Mr. Nick, for ensuring every detail was in place, Mr. Questell (our music teacher) and Mr. Santiago for identifying an amazing DJ and ongoing support. A special thanks to Ms. Georgann Nedwell, Director of School Programs, whose leadership made it all possible!

It was truly a night of joy, celebration, and community, where students and staff alike came together to dance, laugh, and create lasting memories. We are deeply grateful to each and every one of you for making this Mardi Gras celebration a success.

Thank you for making this Winter Formal a night to remember! 🎭🎶🎉

Click Here to See the Full Album of the ICS Winter Formal Photos